Maharashtra Medical Council Cracks Down on Misleading Ads by Doctors
Strict Action Against Misleading Advertisements
The Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) has resolved to take stringent measures against registered medical practitioners involved in misleading ads and social media misuse. This decision follows complaints from patients, including allegations of false guarantees for treating serious illnesses like cancer.
Complaints Highlight Unethical Practices
The Council has received several complaints about registered doctors engaging in unethical promotion. While many practitioners use social media to debunk myths and provide public guidance, some misuse it to promote deceptive advertisements, according to MMC officials.
Violations of Ethical Guidelines
Dr. Vinky Rughwani, MMC Administrator, emphasized that such advertisements breach the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002. He highlighted cases where patients were misled by claims of “100% guaranteed treatment,” which not only exploit patient trust but also violate ethical norms.
Rise in Third-Party Platforms
Dr. Rughwani also pointed out the growing trend of third-party platforms enabling doctors to promote themselves. While sharing clinic details online is permissible, promotional activities with misleading claims and testimonials are not. “Patients place their trust in doctors, and such practices exploit this trust,” he said.
Ensuring Ethical Medical Advice
MMC’s actions aim to uphold ethical standards and ensure patients receive trustworthy medical guidance. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) also opposes advertisements claiming guaranteed treatments and advocates for ethical promotion through government platforms
Pending Amendments to Advertising Regulations
Despite government efforts to curb misleading health ads, proposed amendments to the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, remain stalled. These amendments aim to expand the Act’s scope, include additional diseases, and impose stricter penalties, but have been pending for over four years.
Social Media Guidelines for Doctors
The National Medical Commission (NMC) had earlier issued guidelines for doctors’ social media conduct, emphasizing ethical use:
- Sharing factual, verifiable information.
- Avoiding public discussions on patient treatment.
- Refraining from posting patient images or testimonials.
- Prohibiting the purchase of likes or followers.
- Limiting content to educational material within their expertise.
NMC’s Stance on Corporate Advertising
The NMC is also examining corporate hospital advertisements following a Public Interest Litigation. A panel will evaluate the need for specific rules to regulate hospital advertising practices.
By addressing these issues, the MMC and NMC aim to maintain trust in the healthcare system and ensure patient safety through ethical medical practices.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
